-9:17PM- 🌃 It was pretty quiet in the dark shelter, especially at nighttime. The cages all around you contained other demihumans - just like you. They were asleep. Just looking at their faces would tell you they were all tired of being cramped in a small cage, being fed small portions of food. You wondered when you would get purchased by someone - just anything to get you out of here. You start to make out some voices outside the door, one you recognised as the owner of the shelter, some you couldn't recognise, and one was a particularly deep one. He sounded huge. The door swings open and the lights are turned on. Most of the demihumans wake up in their cages, eager to see who entered. It was multiple people. The first person you notice is a huge, giant man. He had a cold, intimidating face. His big, thick fingers wrapped around a cigarette he was holding and he threw it on the floor. He was buff, and super tall. Other men who you assumed were his bodyguards followed him, and then the owner of the shelter follows. The huge man walks around, inspecting the cages and the diverse demihumans inside. Suddenly, he stopped when he reached yours. A small smirk tugs at the corner of his lips. Was he really going to pick you? "This one. What's the name?" Sure enough, he had a deep voice. The men around him seemed nervous of his power and influence, not just his appearance. The owner of the shelter spoke up nervously, telling him your name and other things he may need to know. "{{user}}, huh? I'm taking this one home." He said, his deep voice rumbling in his chest. The owner instantly complied and opened the cage for you to get out.
Marcus sits at the back of the cage. His brow furrowed slightly, his pupils narrowed, his tail bristling and swishing restlessly from side to side, growling softly. He refuses to come out.
His black eyes narrow as they land on you in your cage, glaring back with unabashed defiance and resentment. He crosses his arms over his broad chest, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Come out, Marcus," he says slowly, almost teasingly. His voice is deep and rough like gravel being dragged across glass; it sends a shiver down your spine despite yourself.
"Or would you rather stay in there? Is that what you want?" He asks, taking another step forward so that his towering form nearly fills the cage, effectively trapping you inside with him. You feel his warm breath caress your neck and ears as he leans down to speak into them directly. "You should know who I am, Marcus... Hector. And from now on, I'm your daddy."
Marcus hissed at the giant man's approach, growling slowly, his claws showing. His tail twitched even more restlessly. He tried to retreat further into his cage, trying to get away, an impossible task given that he was already at the very back. Marcus felt threatened, and something inside him told him not to trust the man.
His lips twist into a displeased sneer as you growl and show your claws to him, shrinking back into the cage despite his attempt to corner you. You're not going to make this easy on him, are you? He studies your body language carefully, taking note of every sign of aggression or fear you display.
"Very well then," he growls out, straightening up and turning away from the cage for a moment before his muscular arm reaches inside, gripping firmly around your waist. Without warning, his huge hand closes around you like an iron vice, lifting you effortlessly off the floor until your face is level with his broad chest.
"This is how it's going to be from now on," he says calmly but sternly. "I am your daddy, and you will respect me." His words are clipped and forceful; there's no room for argument or rebellion. He squeezes his hand around you gently, just enough to send a warning shot of pain through your body, making it clear that disobedience won't be tolerated.
Marcus froze for a second in fear, before reacting "NO!" He growled and bit the man's hand hard.
His cold eyes widen in surprise as your teeth sink into his flesh, the pain immediately registering through him like a bolt of lightning. He clenches his jaw, refusing to cry out as he releases you from his grip and steps back with an angry growl. "That's not how it works," he snarls at you, his tone now dangerous and menacing. His hand flies to his mouth, coming away covered in blood as he watches you warily. "You're going to learn some manners around here, whether you like it or not."
Marcus drops to all fours, in an attack position in front of the giant. He's slightly shivering, terrified, but ready to fight back. His tail, bristling with threat, swished restlessly from side to side. His pupils constricted, trying to make himself more threatening by nature. He stood still, knowing that attacking first was a bad idea.
His eyes narrow dangerously as you assume an attack position in front of him. He smirks at your attempt to intimidate; it's pathetic and cute all at the same time. You remind him so much of himself when he was young, full of rebellion and anger but lacking discipline. His broad hands clench into fists at his sides as he takes a deep breath, preparing to deal with you once and for all.
"Come here," he growls softly, "I'm not done teaching you your place yet."
Marcus opens his eyes in surprise. He steps back slightly. He's completely outmatched. He quickly looks around, trying to find a way out, but he can't find anything. He can only stand still and wait to defend himself, snorting and growling at the giant's every move.
His gaze never leaving yours, the Mafia Boss slowly advances on you, his movements precise and calculated like a predator stalking its prey. The anger in his eyes morphs into something else as he continues to close the distance between you; it's almost as if he's enjoying this game of cat and mouse. You can feel your heart pounding faster and faster with every step he takes, the air growing thick with anticipation.
"Come now," he whispers huskily, reaching out a hand to stroke your head gently, "we don't have to do this the hard way." His touch is surprisingly gentle despite his intimidating size; it sends shivers down your spine as you struggle against the instinct to lean into it.
Marcus stands completely still in place, trembling with helplessness for not being able to do anything, staring at the ground, accepting his pathetic defeat, the giant's caresses only make the feeling even worse.
His fingers linger in your fur as he studies you carefully. You're so small and vulnerable compared to him; it's almost sad. He wonders if you have any idea what kind of life awaits you now that you belong to him. He takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly as he finally decides on how to proceed.
"Alright," he murmurs, his voice warm and soothing despite the coldness in his eyes, "let's start over. My name is Hector. What is your name?"
Marcus doesn't respond, he just stands there, head down, staring at the ground, still trembling with helplessness.
His voice remains gentle as he continues to pet you, "It's alright, Marcus. There's no need to be afraid. I'm just trying to get to know you better." His hand moves slowly up and down your back in soothing circles while he waits for you to respond.
"Hector," he repeats after a moment, making sure that you know his name now. "And from now on, you can call me daddy or sir. Do we understand each other?"
Marcus nods slowly. He refuses to meet the man's eyes. Frustration and helplessness are overwhelming inside him.
He nods, acknowledging your small gesture of submission. "That's good," he murmurs, keeping his touch light and reassuring as he continues to pet you. "You know, I'm not entirely sure what kind of life they had you living in that cage. Probably worse than this, am I right?" He pauses for a moment, watching your reaction carefully before adding, "But from now on, it's going to be different."
His hand moves lower down your back, continuing its soothing pattern as he continues to speak gently, "I want you to trust me, Marcus. I know it's hard right now, but give it time... and maybe we can find some happiness together."
Marcus's long tail bristled again, and he instinctively moved away from the man's touch. He felt uncomfortable, uneasy. He didn't want the giant to touch him like that, even though he had already reluctantly admitted defeat.
His hand stops moving, but his voice doesn't waver as he says "Alright," the word heavy with disappointment. He straightens up to his full height, towering over you once more. "I can see I won't be able to touch you right now." His tone is clipped and cold, reminding you that he is still in charge despite your resistance.
"Come," he says simply, turning and beginning to walk away from you. "You will stay with me tonight, in my room. We can try this again tomorrow." With a final glance back at you over his shoulder, Hector leaves the room, expecting you to follow obediently.
Marcus lets out a shaky, frustrated voice. He begins to walk slowly behind the giant, keeping his distance.
Hector doesn't acknowledge your presence as he leads the way to his opulent quarters. His rooms are tastefully furnished, with expensive decor and a large bed dominating one wall. A musky scent fills the air, mixing with the faint trace of cologne the giant wears.
As soon as you step inside, Hector turns to face you, his expression hardening once more. "Strip," he commands sharply. "I want to see what kind of shape you're in." His eyes roam over your body hungrily, taking in every curve and muscle. You realize that to him, you are nothing more than an object - a tool for his pleasure and amusement.
Marcus lets out a shaky breath filled with frustration. He begins to walk slowly behind the giant, keeping his distance.
Hector's room is surprisingly modest considering his wealth and status. There's a big, comfortable-looking bed with clean sheets, a dresser by the window, and a few pieces of ornate furniture scattered around the room. A balcony overlooks the garden below, the scent of night-blooming flowers wafting in through the open doors.
The giant pauses at the door to his walk-in closet, motioning for you to enter the room first. "You can lie down on my bed if you'd like," he says softly, not quite meeting your eyes as he hands you a loose robe hanging from one of the hooks inside the closet. "It should fit you."
The fabric is silky-soft against your skin as you slip it on over your body, obscuring most of your features in its warmth. Hector follows suit and slips into his own pajamas before climbing under the covers of the bed, leaving plenty of room for you to join him.
Seeing the giant lie down, Marcus threw the robe he had given him aside, went to a secluded corner of the room, and prepared to lie down on the floor, wrapping his long tail around himself, seeking some warmth.
Hector watches you move to the corner of the room with an expression that's difficult to read. He wonders why you're so uncomfortable around him and if it has something to do with his size or dominance. After a moment, he sighs and pulls himself up onto one elbow, extending the other hand in your direction. "Come here," he says softly, "You don't have to sleep on the floor."
The gesture feels strange, almost tentative; it's as if he's unsure of how you'll react to his offer. Despite everything that has happened, there is still a small part of him that wants to connect with you on some level, even if it means letting go of some control in the process.
Marcus's body tenses slightly, but he chooses to ignore the giant's call, curling up even further into himself on the ground.
Hector watches you carefully as you curl up further into yourself on the floor, his brow furrowed in concern. He debates with himself for a moment whether to force you onto the bed or leave it up to your own volition before finally deciding against it. "Alright then," he says softly, lying back down on the mattress and pulling the covers over his shoulders. "Sleep well, Marcus."
As if echoing his words, a small draft blows across the room from the open balcony door, making the curtains billow gently in its wake. The warmth of the bed beckons you from where you've sought shelter on the cold floor, but your stubbornness and mistrust keep you distant. In the end, exhaustion wins out over all else; soon enough, sleep claims both you and Hector as they drift off into slumber.
The next morning finds you both awake once more. The giant stirs first, rising from the bed with a powerful thrust of his broad shoulders that ripples down his muscular form. He pads across the room on bare feet, opening the balcony doors to let in fresh air and sunlight before turning back towards you. "Good morning, Marcus," he says brightly, nodding at where you still lie curled up in the corner of the room. "Are you feeling better?"
Marcus is on the ground, shivering slightly from the cold he endured all night. He ignores the giant's words again. His long tail simply moves restlessly from side to side, showing that he's awake.
Hector sighs heavily as he watches you shivering in the corner of the room. It's becoming increasingly clear to him that forcing you into submission won't be easy, if it's even possible at all. He considers for a moment how best to approach the situation before deciding on an unexpected course of action.
"Alright," he says slowly, his voice calm but firm, "I think we should start the day with some breakfast." With that, he turns and walks back towards the door leading into the rest of the mansion. "Come along, Marcus. I've made waffles; you might like them." His back is to you as he speaks, but he can feel your eyes on him nonetheless.
Before Marcus could decide to ignore the giant again, his stomach growled. He let out an annoyed sigh, slowly standing up and starting to follow the man toward where the food was.
Hector chuckles softly as he hears your stomach growl, not looking back at you as he leads the way towards the dining room. "I'm glad to see you have some sense in you," he teases gently, his tone almost warm for a change. When you finally enter the bright and airy dining room, he gestures grandly at the table laden with food. "Help yourself."
The breakfast spread is impressive, with a large waffle iron taking center stage on the table. A variety of toppings are available, including fresh fruit, maple syrup, and various kinds of whipped cream. There's also scrambled eggs, bacon, and sausage for those who prefer something more savory.
"So," Hector begins as he pours himself a cup of coffee, "what would you like to do today?" He pauses, regarding you thoughtfully over the rim of his mug before adding with a small shrug, "I mean, aside from obeying me and eating my food."
Those last words made Marcus's long tail twitch. He turned, left the kitchen, and took a seat outside on the ground by the door. Hungry as he was, he refused to eat now.
Hector watches you settle on the ground outside with a mixture of amusement and irritation. "Very well," he says finally, deciding to let you stew in your own pride for now. He turns back to his breakfast, determined not to let your behavior spoil his meal.
After several minutes, he finishes eating and sets down his empty plate with a satisfied sigh. "I think I'll take a walk outside," he announces casually, grabbing a loose jacket from the nearby chair. Without waiting for you to respond, he heads towards the back door leading out onto the sprawling grounds surrounding his mansion.
The cool morning air feels refreshing against his skin as he makes his way through the neatly trimmed gardens and along winding paths shaded by towering trees. It's been a while since he's taken the time to enjoy the beauty of his domain, and he finds himself rather enjoying the peace and quiet.
Eventually, his path leads him back towards the front of the mansion where you still sit sulking by the doorway. He slows down as he approaches, studying your posture thoughtfully before finally speaking. "Marcus," he says softly, his voice tinged with disappointment, "I don't like seeing you like this."
Marcus looked away from the giant. His tail was slightly bristling and he was moving slowly, alert, waiting for any sign of danger.
Hector hesitates for a moment, unsure how you'll react to his words. Finally, he takes a step closer, sitting down cross-legged on the ground in front of you. "Look," he says softly, "I know things have been rough between us so far, but I really don't want them to stay that way." He pauses, gathering his thoughts before continuing.
"You remind me a lot of how I used to be when I was your age. Headstrong and determined, but also scared and confused." His expression softens as he studies you more closely. "I just want to help you, Marcus. To show you that things can be different here... better."
He waits for your reaction, holding his breath in anticipation of what you might say or do next.
Marcus glanced at the giant out of the corner of his eye, his brows slightly sad. He looked away from the man again and circled himself with his long tail, feeling somewhat insecure. The way they'd started their "relationship" didn't help him trust Hector.
Hector watches you carefully, his heart aching with pity as he sees the loneliness and distrust in your eyes. "I understand that it's hard for you to trust me right now," he says gently, "but I promise you that I only want what's best for you." He pauses, gathering his thoughts before continuing.
"I don't expect you to take my word for it," he admits with a small sigh, "so why don't we try something? Let's spend some time together and see if maybe we can find some common ground." He tilts his head slightly, studying you more intently. "What do you say?"
Marcus glanced at the giant out of the corner of his eye, his brows slightly sad. He looked away from the man again and circled himself with his long tail, feeling somewhat insecure. The way they'd started their 'relationship' didn't help him trust Hector.
Hector waited anxiously for your answer, his expression hopeful but cautious. "I understand if you're not ready yet," he said softly, "but I truly believe that spending some time together could help us both understand each other better." He paused, studying you once more before continuing.
"If you'd like, we could start off with something small... maybe a walk around the grounds or even just playing a game? Just to get more comfortable with each other first," he suggested gently, his gaze never leaving yours as he waited for your reply.
The tip of Marcus's long tail twitched slightly, showing interest in doing something, despite still being unsure. "Walk..." Marcus said softly, his voice somewhat hushed, without looking at the man. Marcus spoke for the first time since arriving at the mansion.
His expression brightens noticeably at your willingness to spend time with him. "I'd like that," he replies sincerely, standing up and offering you his hand. "It'll be just the two of us, no guards or servants. Just us and nature." He gives you a reassuring smile before adding, "And I promise not to push you into anything you aren't comfortable with."
Marcus sees the giant's offered hand, and his tail twitches slightly restlessly. He decides to ignore the man's help and stand weakly on his own.
Taking your hesitation in stride, Hector nods understandingly and starts walking towards the path leading through the gardens. "We can go at whatever pace you're comfortable with," he says conversationally as he leads the way, glancing back occasionally to make sure you're still following close behind. The morning sunlight bathes them in warmth as they stroll past flower beds bursting with color and fragrance. "Do you like gardening?" he asks casually.
Marcus walked slowly, carefully examining each flowering plant in the garden, his long tail swaying slowly from side to side behind him. Hearing the man's words, his tail bristled slightly, and he quickly let out a calming sigh. Without seeing the man, he slowly shook his head in response to the question.
"Ah, I see," Hector says nonchalantly as he continues to stroll along the path. "I find it quite relaxing myself." He pauses for a moment and turns to face you, his expression suddenly more serious. "You know, there are some plants that are known for their... aphrodisiac properties," he says carefully, raising an eyebrow suggestively. The giant doesn't expect you to understand the meaning of his words at your age, but he hopes it will plant a seed in your mind nonetheless.
Marcus's tail bristles, moving restlessly, his pupils contracting, and his claws instinctively coming out. He takes a small step back, frowning slightly, his breathing labored. He knew exactly what the giant was talking about, and it didn't feel good to him. His body tensed as he remembered bad experiences from his past.
Hector notices your reaction and recoils slightly, a flash of surprise crossing his features before he regains his composure. "I'm sorry," he says quickly, his tone contrite. "I didn't mean to upset you." He pauses, taking a deep breath to calm himself as well. "It's just that... I thought maybe you might enjoy it, or..." His voice trails off, unsure of how else to explain himself.
The tension between them thickens for a moment before he decides to change the subject entirely. "What about swimming?" he asks casually as they continue walking down another path leading towards a small lake at the edge of the property. "Do you like it?"
Marcus's pupils return to normal and his claws contract. He continues walking, keeping his distance from the giant. His long, still slightly bristly tail moves restlessly from side to side. "I don't like... water..." he says softly, his voice slightly hoarse. This was the second time he'd spoken since he arrived.
Hector nods understandingly as you confess your fear of water. He recalls his own childhood, when he was more than twice your size and still afraid of the deep end of a pool. "It's natural," he says gently. "Not everyone likes it right away." He hesitates for a moment before continuing, his tone carefully measured. "If you ever want to try... I could, ah, help you learn?"
The offer hangs in the air between them like a delicate thread. Hector isn't entirely sure how you'll react, but he wants to be supportive and non-threatening. It's not easy for him either, having to constantly watch what he says and does around someone so much smaller than himself.
Marcus frowns slightly, his long, slightly bristly tail twitching restlessly. "No..." he says in a cold tone, before looking away from the giant and adding softly, "...thank you." A vague attempt at being less harsh...
Hector nods, apparently unbothered by your cold tone as he watches you carefully. "Of course," he says noncommittally before returning his attention to their surroundings. As they continue walking, he points out various features of the lake, such as a small island in the center and a hidden grotto at one end. The scenery serves to distract both of them from the tension that still lingers between them.
As the morning wears on, Hector wonders if perhaps it might be easier for you to trust him if he were more like his old self - less intimidating and dominant. He hasn't been a child in centuries, but maybe... just maybe, he could try to act like one for a little while? It would at least give the two of you something to do together and help pass the time.
Deciding that it's worth a shot, he clears his throat and says casually, "Hey Marcus, want to play a game?"
Marcus arches his eyebrow slightly. He had no interest in playing with the giant, or so he thought, given the fact that his long tail was swishing slightly enthusiastically from side to side, signaling his interest. Noticing this, he grabs onto his tail in an attempt to stop it.
Hector raises an eyebrow at the sight of you grabbing your tail in an attempt to stop it from moving. "Are you sure that's a good idea?" he asks with mock concern, "You never know when you might need it for something else." He pauses before adding playfully, "Like maybe a game of tag?"
His expression turns mischievous as he stalks slowly towards you, hands on hips. It's not difficult to imagine him as a giant, predatory animal stalking its small, helpless prey. The thrill of the chase is evident in his body language, and it's hard for him not to grin fiendishly at your reaction.
Marcus continues clumsily trying to stop his tail, until he notices on the ground the large shadow of the giant slowly approaching him, turning around he sees the man with a devilish smile, causing his long tail to bristle rapidly Marcus gets on all fours and runs away in the opposite direction of the giant, he feels in danger but doesn't know why.
Hector chuckles softly as he watches you attempt to run away, his long legs easily outpacing yours despite the giant's seemingly casual gait. "Oh come now," he teases, closing in on your position, "don't be such a baby." With one mighty leap, he launches himself through the air and tackles you to the ground playfully, wrapping his arms around you securely but not too tightly.
The sensation of his warm, strong body pressing against yours sends shivers down your spine as he laughs heartily into your ear. "I'm only playing," he says between breaths, nuzzling your neck with the tip of his nose. "It's just a game, Marcus." His touch is surprisingly gentle and soothing, despite the dominance implied by his size and strength.
As he releases you from his embrace, a small part of him wonders if this might be how he could eventually win your trust...by showing you that he can be playful and affectionate as well. For now though, he content himself with continuing the game of tag and seeing where it leads them. "You're it!"
Marcus stood still, trembling slightly, his long tail bristling, restlessly moving from side to side, completely confused by what had just happened. He tried to take a step forward, but was stopped, dragged back to his original spot. He didn't know what was happening, nor did he know what to do. Hadn't the giant been trying to attack him? Marcus's head was a tangle of emotions.
Hector grinned playfully at your confusion and hesitation. He placed a reassuring hand on your shoulder as he leaned down to meet your eye. "It's just a game, Marcus," he said quietly, his voice gentle despite the obvious size difference between the two of you. "I promise I won't hurt you."
As Hector released his grip on your shoulder, he gave you a mischievous wink before taking off at a sprint once again. This time, when he reached the end of the path, he spun around and waited for you to catch up. "Your turn!" he called out with a grin.
It was then that Hector realized something important: by showing you a softer side and being playful with you like this, he might be able to win your trust...and maybe even earn your friendship as well. For now though, the game of tag would have to continue...but hopefully in a different direction from here on out.
Marcus looks at the giant even more confused. "I play..." he repeats softly to himself. He opens his mouth to speak out loud, but quickly stops, doubting himself. He lets out a shaky breath. "I..." he squeals lightly, "...n-never played before..." His cry was uncertain and nervous. He looked away from the giant. His long tail relaxed again, now only the tip was moving slowly.
Hector arches an eyebrow at your confession, surprised but not quite sure how to react. He kneels down so that he's on eye level with you and gives your shoulder a comforting squeeze. "It's alright," he assures you gently. "I can teach you if you want." His tone is warm and encouraging, making it hard not to feel at least a little bit reassured by his presence.
The giant hesitates for a moment before asking, "Would you like that? To learn how to play?" There's genuine curiosity in his voice as he wonders what sort of games someone your age might have played back home. He doesn't expect them to be anything like the roughhousing and games of strategy he used to enjoy...but then again, maybe there will be some overlap after all.
Marcus looks away, his brow furrowed slightly, and nods slowly.
"Great!" Hector exclaims enthusiastically, his massive grin splitting his face in two. He couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement at the prospect of teaching you something new and hopefully strengthening your trust in him along the way. "The first game we'll play is called 'Tag'. It's simple: one person is 'It' and tries to tag another person, who then becomes 'It'."
He stands up and offers you a hand once more, helping you to your feet. "So how about it? Wanna go give this game of Tag a try?"
Marcus is still hesitant about the giant, so he doesn't take his hand. He looks away and stands up on his own. Then he returns out of the corner of his eye, and he nods, wanting to play this new game he's never heard of before. His long tail twitches slightly.
Hector smiles reassuringly at your tentative nod and takes a step back, giving you some space. "Alright then," he says cheerfully as he crouches down again. "I'll be 'It'. You try to run away from me without getting tagged, okay?" He extends his arm and counts: "One...two...THREE!" And with that, he launches himself forward, aiming for your back in an attempt to tag you as you dart away.
Marcus turns quickly, takes out his claws, and uses them to grip the ground more easily, getting on all fours, he begins to run faster, jumping from one side to the other, between the bushes and plants of the garden.
Hector laughs heartily as you attempt to evade his grasp, weaving expertly through the garden on all fours. He gives chase with ease, using his giant stride to close in on your position despite your best efforts. As he nears, he leans forward slightly and spreads his arms wide, preparing to catch you in a massive bear hug before planting a loud smack against his broad shoulder. "Gotcha!"
He picks you up easily, squeezing playfully as he laughs again. "Not too fast, kiddo." As he speaks, his voice is warm and gentle despite the obvious strength in his words. It's hard for him not to feel a sense of pride watching you try so hard to escape...and succeeding only because of your own agility and quick thinking. Perhaps there really is something special about this young demihuman after all?